Police To Hold Active Shooter Training At Geneva School

GENEVA, IL – The Geneva Police Department will be conducting active shooter response training from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday at Western Avenue Elementary School, 1500 Western Ave.The training is being conducted in conjunction with Geneva Community Unit School District 304 and will focus on a potential response to an active shooting incident, according to a news release from the city of Geneva. The exercise will include emergency vehicles, sirens and loud sounds that may be activated as part of the training.

The school and surrounding area will be closed to the public during training to ensure the safety of emergency responders and neighbors. Signs will be posted around the school property to alert residents of the exercise and training boundaries, according to a news release.

The public should avoid the school grounds until the training exercise is complete and all emergency vehicles have left the area.

"This type of training has become a necessity," according to the news release.

According to FBI statistics, there were 30 active shooter incidents in 2017. These numbers are higher than the three-year average of 20 from 2014-16.

"This training is intended to help emergency personnel respond appropriately and anticipate the ever-changing circumstances of an active shooter situation," according to the news release. "The Geneva Police Department appreciates the public’s understanding and patience as officers participate in this vital emergency response exercise."

In addition, the Geneva Police Department is offering presentations on workplace violence and active shooter preparedness for their school or place of business. Those interested can call Geneva Police Administrative Sgt. Eli Rivera at 630-232-4736.

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